Description
The Murasaki-Obi (Purple Belt) is the signature Pure Malt expression from the Kyoto Miyako Distillery.
In the Japanese tradition of color symbolism, purple (Murasaki) represents royalty and high status. A fitting choice for this sophisticated blend of carefully selected malt whiskies.
Designed to evoke the pristine nature of Kyotamba-cho, the Murasaki-Obi is celebrated for its harmonious balance between rich, malty sweetness and a delicate, atmospheric “smokiness” that lingers like mountain mist.
The Craft: The Pure Malt Philosophy
The Murasaki-Obi is a testament to the distillery’s “exquisite blending technique,” focusing exclusively on high-quality malted barley spirits.
Pure Malt Composition: Unlike the Red or Silver belts which include grain whisky, the Purple Belt is a blend of 100% malt whiskies. This provides a denser, more complex aromatic profile.
Balanced Smokiness: The distillery achieves a “well-balanced smokiness”—it is not an aggressive peat, but rather a subtle, sophisticated wisp of smoke that enhances the cereal sweetness.
The Kyotamba Influence: The soft, mineral-pure water and the natural temperature fluctuations of the Kyoto highlands contribute to a “delicate and fresh” finish.
The Appearance: Brilliant gold with amber reflections.
The Nose: Luxuriously aromatic. It leads with a profound malty sweetness, followed by notes of dried fruit, honeyed biscuits, and a very subtle, elegant hint of woodsmoke.
The Palate: Medium-bodied and silky. The “original taste” of the selected malts shines through with flavors of toffee, toasted nuts, and a touch of orchard fruit.
The Finish: Fresh and clean. The finish is remarkably delicate, leaving a lingering trail of soft malt and a whisper of smoke.
SFWSC (San Francisco World Spirits) Double Gold Medal 2023
ISC (International Spirits Challenge) Silver Medal 2023
IWSC (International Wine & Spirit) 92 Points (Silver) 2023
Producer Profile
The New Standard of Kyoto Whisky
Kyoto Shuzo is a pioneer in the craft spirits world, standing as the first whisky distillery in the historic city of Kyoto. Located in the picturesque Kyotamba region—a highland area known for its extreme temperature shifts and pristine water sources the distillery combines centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship with a modern, innovative approach to blending.
Under the label Kyoto Whisky, the distillery has quickly gained international acclaim for its “scents of Kyoto,” capturing the refined and serene spirit of Japan’s ancient capital in every bottle.
The Terroir: The Gift of Kyotamba
The secret to Kyoto Shuzo’s distinct profile lies in the unique climate of Kyotamba. Situated in a mountainous plateau, the distillery experiences a vast difference in temperature between day and night. These fluctuations accelerate the interaction between the whisky and the oak casks, resulting in a depth of flavor and maturity that belies the whisky’s age.
This process is fueled by the region’s exceptionally soft and pure water, filtered through the surrounding mountains, which provides the silky, elegant mouthfeel that is a hallmark of the Kyoto Whisky style.
The Craft: Artistry in the Blend
Kyoto Shuzo focuses on a philosophy of “Harmony and Balance.” By utilizing a variety of cask types including Bourbon, Sherry, and toasted American Oak—the distillery creates complex, multi-layered spirits.
- Traditional Excellence: The distillery employs a range of maturation techniques to ensure that each expression offers a distinct personality, from rich and smoky to floral and delicate.
- The Nishijin-ori Label: In a tribute to Kyoto’s cultural heritage, the premium “Kyoto Whisky” range features labels made of Nishijin-ori—a traditional woven silk textile from Kyoto. This artisan touch reflects the luxury and meticulous detail found inside the bottle.
- Global Recognition: Despite its young history, Kyoto Shuzo has already secured prestigious awards, including Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
